The Swamp Stomp
Volume 16, Issue 27
Many of us are have become familiar with the work of criminal investigators, because this subject has infiltrated television and movies. For instance, we are familiar with many of the activities required to solve a crime: collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, conducting surveillance, planning raids, and helping prepare cases for court. But what most of us don’t realize is that the victims in some of these cases are not people, but rather wildlife. Special agents of the Fish and Wildlife Service investigate crimes related to wildlife. They enforce federal wild life laws, prevent smuggling, conspiracy, money laundering, and fraud. They also investigate the killing of endangered or protected wildlife and work with industry groups and companies to reduce hazards to wildlife.
These special agents often work undercover and in covert operations. They don’t wear uniforms, generally remain anonymous, and rarely give interviews. Special agents must be in excellent physical condition, pass mandatory drug tests and psychological screenings, and have a four-year degree in wildlife management, criminal justice, or other related field. And only the best of the best are accepted. There are currently only 250 special agents working for the Fish and Wildlife Service.
Why does the Fish and Wildlife Service need a class of covert special agents? While illegal activities involving wildlife are not often an apparent problem to the general population, they do frequently occur. Illegal trade in wildlife is second only to narcotics. Special agents often go undercover to infiltrate trafficking rings and illegal guiding operations to document violations. The black market for wildlife is estimated to be worth more than $20 billion. These animals are often smuggled into the United States as a part of the pet trade or for collectors. And preventing this illegal trade is extremely important, because illegal wildlife trade can lead to mass extinction of species.
When an animal is recovered from an illegal operation, the Service cannot release it back into the wild because the animal is evidence and also it is unfit to survive alone after living in captivity. Every time a wild animal is captured for illegal trade, there is one less animal to contribute to its natural population.
The best ways for individuals to help prevent illegal wildlife trade is to stay informed. Asking questions and getting the facts about wildlife can help prevent the success of smugglers. Also educating others to do the same thing is important. In addition, pushing governments to pass and enforce laws that reduce demand and impose deterrents can help.
Although not well known, the special agents of The Fish and Wildlife Service provide an important function in our environment. The job of the special agent is to uphold the objectives of the Fish and Wildlife Service. These objectives are: to “Assist in the development and application of an environmental stewardship ethic for our society, based on ecological principles, scientific knowledge of fish and wildlife, and a sense of moral responsibility,” to “Guide the conservation, development, and management of the Nation’s fish and wildlife resources,” and to “Administer a national program to provide the public opportunities to understand, appreciate, and wisely use fish and wildlife resources.”